It’s always good when food and art combine, which it did beautifully at The Museum of the Zinsou Foundation in Ouidah, Benin.
After a morning of sightseeing, we stopped for lunch in the light and airy café which was adorned with relaxing murals of the beach and palm trees. As it was a full day, we ordered two starters from the chalkboard menu, which our guide helpfully translated from French: potato balls and a carrot and orange salad. We’d indicated that we were going to share, and they arrived divided between our two plates which was a lovely touch. They were both delicious, light and complemented each other well.
During a guided tour, we learned that whilst the gallery’s main purpose is to promote contemporary African artists, particularly those with connections to Benin, they also display work by artists from all over the world.
Although Bradt indicated there were some scary pieces, we enjoyed the interesting art, photographs, and installations. The guide helpfully told us the artist’s name, their background and where they were from but kept it simple and didn’t cover every piece.
The museum is housed in a two-storey, fabulous Afro-Brazillian house characterised by lots of wood and windows which were open and so let in a cooling breeze.
Having signed the visitors book, we then left through a different exit where there was a small shop. The gallery was free, but guides are essential and donations welcome.
